Each
year, more than 800 students from over 40 countries experience America from a unique perspective. They participate in the American Institute
For Foreign Study Foundation's Academic Year in America (AYA) program,
where they join a caring American family and attend a U.S. high
school.

AYA students share their customs and cultures with their American
host families and new American friends. In return, they receive
a lifetime of treasured memories and friendships and gain a special
understanding of America's cultural diversity and the English language.

Why should you become an AYA student?

You live with an American family and spend an exciting year
with American teenagers in a U.S. high school.

You experience the life of an American teenager.

You become a member of an American family.

You improve your English skills with help from your American
family, friends and high school.

By sharing everyday activities, you come to know what it is
like to be an American.

Academic Year in America has made these experiences possible for
over two decades. AYA is sponsored by the American Institute For
Foreign Study Foundation, a not-for-profit educational organization
founded in 1967. Since the Foundation has been designated by the
U.S. Department of State as an Exchange Visitor Program, participants
obtain a J-1 exchange visa for the duration of the program.